When it comes to water, dogs seem to fall into two distinct camps: the enthusiastic splashers who leap into any puddle or pool they find, and the hesitant hounds who treat bath time like a betrayal. If you’ve ever wondered why some dogs love water while others act like it's molten lava, you’re not alone.
This curious canine behavior is rooted in a mix of breed tendencies, individual personality, past experiences, and even physical traits. Let’s dive in (pun intended) to explore why water is a favorite playground for some dogs and a source of stress for others.
1. Breed Traits: Nature Plays a Big Role
One of the most significant factors determining whether a dog loves or hates water is its breed. Certain breeds were developed with water work in mind and carry a natural affinity for swimming. These dogs often have physical traits like webbed feet, water-resistant coats, and strong limbs designed for paddling.
Water-loving breeds include:
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Labrador Retrievers: Bred to retrieve game from water, they’re natural swimmers.
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Golden Retrievers: Similar to Labs, they were bred for waterfowl hunting.
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Newfoundlands: These gentle giants have thick, insulating coats and strong swimming ability; they’ve even been used in water rescues.
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Portuguese Water Dogs: As the name suggests, they were developed to herd fish and retrieve lost gear from the sea.
On the other hand, some breeds are simply not built for swimming. This could be due to their body structure, coat type, or lack of natural buoyancy.
Breeds that typically dislike water include: -
Chihuahuas: Small size makes cold water especially uncomfortable.
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Shih Tzus and Pekingese: Long coats get heavy and tangled when wet.
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Bulldogs and Pugs: Their flat faces (brachycephalic traits) make breathing more difficult in water.
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Greyhounds: Lean bodies with little body fat make them more prone to feeling cold quickly.
2. Personality and Early Experiences
Like people, dogs have unique personalities. Even within a breed known for loving water, some individuals might avoid it. A dog’s early experiences can also shape its relationship with water. If a dog’s first encounter with water was scary—perhaps it fell into a pool or was forced into a bath—it may develop a lasting aversion. Conversely, positive early experiences with water, such as gentle introductions to puddles, streams, or wading pools, can foster a lifelong love of aquatic activities.
3. Sensory Sensitivities
Some dogs are highly sensitive to certain sensations. The feeling of being wet, the noise of running water, or the strange surface of a bathtub can be overstimulating or distressing. Dogs with sensory sensitivities might hate water not because they fear drowning, but because it simply feels unpleasant or disrupts their comfort zone. For example, a dog that dislikes having its paws touched may especially hate walking through water.
4. Temperature and Environment
The temperature of the water can have a major impact. Most dogs dislike cold water, especially smaller breeds or those with short fur. In contrast, a warm day and a cool lake can be an irresistible combination for dogs with thick coats. The setting also matters. A dog might happily play in a creek during a hike but panic at the sight of a slippery bathtub. Open water can feel exciting and natural, while enclosed spaces feel restrictive or threatening.
5. Grooming vs. Swimming: Not All Water Is the Same
Many dog owners find it baffling when their pet hates baths but loves lakes. This seemingly contradictory behavior often boils down to control and context. In a bath, a dog is confined, handled, and subjected to unfamiliar scents like shampoo. In a lake, they’re free to run, splash, and sniff. So, it’s not necessarily the water itself—it’s the experience around it that matters.
6. Can You Teach a Dog to Like Water?
If your dog doesn’t take to water naturally, all is not lost. With patience and positive reinforcement, you can gradually help your dog become more comfortable around water.
Tips for encouraging water play:
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Start slow with shallow water, like puddles or a kiddie pool.
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Use toys and treats to create positive associations.
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Never force your dog into water—it can cause trauma.
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Let your dog observe other dogs enjoying water.
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Keep early experiences short, warm, and fun.
Remember: not every dog will become a swimmer, and that’s okay. The goal should be comfort, not performance.
Final Thoughts
Whether your dog is a born swimmer or prefers to stay dry, their relationship with water is shaped by a complex mix of genetics, environment, and experience. While it’s tempting to wish your dog loved the beach as much as you do, it’s important to respect their preferences and comfort levels.
After all, just like humans, dogs have their likes and dislikes. Some love the thrill of a splash, while others would rather sunbathe on the shore. And as long as they’re happy and healthy, that’s perfectly fine.